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Labour is continuing its commitment to expand the network of pylons across England and Wales, igniting local political debates in the process. A recent report indicates that the cost of underground electricity cables is more than quadruple that of overhead lines.
Pylons have emerged as a significant electoral topic in several regions, particularly in Lincolnshire, where local elections are underway. Both Reform and Conservative parties advocate for the burial of electricity cables instead of their overhead installation.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has highlighted the divide between Labour and the Green Party, following Green co-leader Adrian Ramsay’s call for a halt on the proposed route of 520 pylons through his constituency on his first day in Parliament. Miliband has criticized Ramsay publicly, accusing him of obstructing the development of crucial energy infrastructure.
Labour’s stance is backed by findings from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) report, which reveals that underground cable installation costs are, on average, 4.5 times higher than overhead alternatives.
In some scenarios, the disparity in cost is even more pronounced. For instance, an estimated £40 million is needed for a standard 15km-long overhead line capable of carrying 5,000MW, whereas the cost of a comparable underground cable could reach approximately £330 million, or up to £820 million if a new tunnel is required.
Moreover, constructing underground cables generally requires more time compared to building pylons, presenting a challenge for Labour to rapidly develop renewable energy infrastructure. The party aims to meet its ambitious target of nearly eliminating gas from the electricity grid by 2030.
However, public sentiment regarding pylons is mixed, as many residents voice concerns about their impact on the aesthetics of the countryside.
This issue is significantly influencing local election campaigns, especially in Lincolnshire, where a planned 87-mile (140km) pylon line is stirring discontent. Andrea Jenkyns, Reform’s candidate for Greater Lincolnshire mayor, has stated, “Only Reform UK has a plan to push back on pylons desecrating our Lincolnshire countryside.”
The government has expressed support for the IET report. Energy Minister Michael Shanks remarked, “We need to get Britain building again to fulfill our plan for change that protects billpayers, drives growth, and creates jobs. Upgrading the grid will connect more homes and businesses to clean, locally-sourced energy.”
Furthermore, Shanks mentioned, “This report demonstrates that pylons are the most economically viable option for consumers, as underground cables entail significantly higher installation and maintenance costs. We also want to ensure that those living near pylons gain benefits, including a £2,500 discount on their energy bills over ten years.”
Labour leader Keir Starmer has previously highlighted pylons within the government’s context of making tough choices for better outcomes. In his inaugural speech as prime minister to the Labour conference, he articulated, “As we tackle the significant challenges neglected by the Conservatives, it is essential for politicians to communicate the trade-offs we face. To achieve lower electricity costs, we need to build pylons above ground; otherwise, the taxpayer burden becomes insurmountable.”
Pylons have also posed challenges for the Conservative Party. Previously, Andrew Bowie, then energy minister, was removed from his position overseeing renewable infrastructure, including pylons, after he was found to be campaigning against them in his local constituency.
Source
www.theguardian.com